Bertha_Jalilie

Bertha Sofia Jalilie

1966 - 2021

  • 54 years old
  • Year of birth:  1966
  • Place of birth:  San Francisco
  • Date of passing:  June 25th, 2021
  • Place of passing:  Santa Cruz
This memorial website was created in the memory of our loved one, Bertha Jalilie, 54, born in 1966 and passed away on June 25th, 2021. We will remember her forever.
Memorial Tributes
Leave a Tribute
Candle lit  by Bob Ray on July 6th, 2021

So sad that we lost this beacon of compassion, kindness and love way too damn soon. RIP and know that you are missed by many …

Candle lit  by Richard Aguirre on July 6th, 2021

I was deeply sadden when I heard the news of the passing of such a beautiful person. I will always remember your breathtaking smile and your kind welcoming. You’ll always be in my heart and many others, you’ll never be forgotten. Rest In Peace.

Candle lit  by Anne Palmer Peterson on July 6th, 2021

My dearest Dr. J., you were so much more than a doctor to us all. I have never met a more kind-hearted, compassionate, loving, caring soul. You shone so brightly in this crazy world. You touched my life so deeply, and I will honor you always for being such a gift not just to me, but to all. I know you are resting peacefully, with Bucky. You are my angel always, Love you dear Sofia.

Candle lit  by Gary Lee on July 6th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie;
Thank you for being my friend first and then my doctor. Your memory will always be in my heart. The love and compassion you had for everyone cannot be measured with words. There's no one that I know who's life you have not touched. Stay surrounded by God and the Angels. Love you always.

Candle lit  by Cathy Scott on July 6th, 2021

If kindness and compassion has a face it was yours. I’m so grateful and honored to have had the pleasure of your friendship. Also so grateful that you were my physician for a time as well. You rescued Troy and I more times than I care to count. I will always love and miss you beyond words. I hope the reunion with Bucky was epic. AWWW Buck!  RIP sweet friend!

Candle lit  by Douglas & Julie Runyon on July 6th, 2021

We couldn’t have asked for a sweeter, kinder person to have as part of our extended family. You made our lives better just by being you. We’ll always remember the many holidays our families spent together over the years and we’ll raise a glass to you on all the holidays to come.
Maybe one day, when we are all together again, we’ll sit and watch the Giants play.
You are greatly missed by the four of us

Candle lit  by Richard Rice on July 6th, 2021

I am saddened by your unexpected passing. Your spirit was so special. And that smile. That is the one thing I will always remember about you. May your Beautiful soul rest in internal peace.

Candle lit  by Candice Clipner on July 6th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie, Bert, Switzerland, is how I have heard others talk of you. You were loving, generous, forgiving, gracious  motherly, supportive, intelligent. Your blood family so mourns how you were taken from earth.

Candle lit  by Daniel Onn on July 6th, 2021

I was a Patient of Dr. Jalilie's and more so than just a Patient she was a true Friend. We had communicated just two days before via the Patient Profile and her last words to me were to"Stay Strong and Take Care". Little did I know that she would pass two days later.  You could go to Dr. Jalilie with any medical condition and she really took the time to listen and get to know you!

Candle lit  by Marlane Tinsley on July 7th, 2021

My doctor for 23 years, Dr. J was also my friend. She gave me her cell number, and although I only used it on very rare occasions, I was always touched by her desire to be available to me and my family. I can't imagine going to another doctor. To her friends and family, you will be in my prayers. I can't imagine your loss, she loved so well. I miss her already.

Candle lit  by Peter Jalilie on July 7th, 2021

My beautiful beloved Prima, you are the most exceptional and gifted Doctor I’ve ever known.  Your extraordinary graciousness, generosity and kindness is legendary as is your infectious radiant smile and sweet soul.  You are a one of a kind masterpiece of God and you bring such magnanimous joy to all who know you.  You will always and forever be cherished and treasured,

Candle lit  by Carole Zizak on July 7th, 2021

Our family will be forever thankful for your wonderful, compassionate, kind and empathetic care over the years.   May God wrap his arms around you and provide eternal love, peace and comfort.  

Candle lit  by Alison Brown on July 7th, 2021

There are no words.Rest in peace you have your wings. You took such great care of me in days when I was sick or broken. Praying for you and your family.

Candle lit  by Craig Chidlow on July 7th, 2021

Our family doctor over 20 years, she was our most trusted caregiver. She greeted me like a long lost friend the few times we ran into each other outside the office. Intelligent yet humble, doctor plus friend.  My last zoom call was in the garden with my dog and she loved the vibe. Our heartfelt sympathy to Sofia's family and friends.  We will forever remember her in our hearts.

Candle lit  by Thanh Uyen Le on July 7th, 2021

THINGS TO THINK

Think in ways you’ve never thought before.
If the phone rings, think of it as carrying a message
Larger than anything you’ve ever heard,
Vaster than a hundred lines of Yeats.

When someone knocks on the door,
Think that he’s about
To give you something large: tell you you’re forgiven,
Or that it’s not necessary to work all the time,
Or that it’s been decided that if you lie down no one will die.

~Robert Bly

Candle lit  by Thanh Uyen Le on July 7th, 2021

Oh, Sofia. Your grace, elegance, care, concern, and intelligence was a gift to us. Thank you for being my dear friend over these last three decades.  Your legacy is that of love and I am consoled in knowing that you gave it freely and willingly. Rest my sweet friend. May peace be forever with you.

Candle lit  by Ivy Witter on July 7th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie cared for my family for over 20 years. She was a truely compassionate person,always a smile and willing to take the time needed to care for you.  A truly tragic loss.  Rest in peace with the angels. You will always be cherished.

Candle lit  by Cassie Jalilie on July 7th, 2021

Since an early age I’ve always looked up to you. You were a role model, so empowering. You broke the glass ceiling and I hope to carry that Jalilie torch just like you. You’re words of encouragement meant so much. You told me you were proud. I’m proud to have such a beautiful an amazing cousin like you. You were such light and love to so many peoples lives. I strive to do the same in my own life and ill always keep your memory alive. You will forever inspire me. I love you cousin. You will always be “most cool” 

Candle lit  by janice franzino on July 7th, 2021

Dr J  was my favorite doctor, she was so compassionate, kind, I felt like I was visiting my sister,, she helped me in so many ways, diagnosed things for myself and my husband,  she was one of a kind.  I was SO sad to hear she passed,, when I found out I cried,,, she was a beacon of light and will be truly missed.  Her last words to me was "God Bless",,, RIP you beautiful soul,  Love, Jan

Candle lit  by Elena Miles on July 7th, 2021


I am sadden when I heard the news of the passing, she was such a wonderful and beautiful person. I will always miss her smile and kindness . She will always be in my heart. My heart is breaking for her and her family. Rest in peace my friend.

Candle lit  by Michelle Krueger-Kalinski on July 7th, 2021

Find peace my dear friend.  Your kindness and love will be with me always.  Thank you for being you.

Candle lit  by Elizabeth Ondyak on July 7th, 2021

There are not adequate enough words to praise this remarkable and extraordinary human.  I was honored and blessed to be her patient.  She will always be in my heart.  I wish her family peace and the healing of their hearts.

Candle lit  by Renuka Madduluri on July 7th, 2021

Sofia was my doctor for 18 years. She was so kind, compassionate and reassuring. Always took the care to address concerns and followed up so diligently . I can´t imagine not being able to see her anymore. So tragic and heartbreaking. My heartfelt condolences to the family. She will be greatly missed.

Candle lit  by John Giuffre on July 8th, 2021

Tia Berta, Dr.J. We will miss forever. Leyla looked up to you as a mom. She is crushed at your untimely passing.  Our daughters cherished your kindness, compassion and bright smile.  When ever I called for medical advice you were quick to respond. You even did in home procedures when needed. Carmen and GiGi looked up to you as a mentor and a role model. But mostly a loving Auntie/ Tia.

Candle lit  by Positron Kebebew on July 8th, 2021

I am totally heartbroken. I cannot understand why you left so soon…but I will always cherish your beautiful and gentle soul.
Rest In Peace my dearest Sofia.

Candle lit  by Wendy Frye on July 8th, 2021

Dear Sofia,
July 6th @ 5pm would have been your hair appointment with me.
I will miss your texts at 5:02pm saying you’re on your way, our chats, your smile, your laugh, how excited you’d get after your hair was all done & your hugs. RIP XO

Candle lit  by Rose Omega-Harrison on July 8th, 2021

Dr. Sophia was a kind beautiful soul. When I first met her, she twirled into the patient room like a breath of fresh air and greeted me like a friend. She cared for my entire family and we are sadden by her untimely passing. We envision Sophia in heaven with her beautiful smile doing what she does best: taking an interest in others. We've been blessed knowing her. Rest in peace Sophia.

Candle lit  by Diana L Ward on July 8th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie, I remember that first day when I met my new Family Doctor (and friend). You always had my best interest and health in mind when planning my treatments for all my chronic and complicated health issues. I still can’t believe you left us so soon and you will always be in my heart and thoughts. RIP, my Doctor and friend. You had so much more to Accomplish.

Candle lit  by Nicole Zaya on July 8th, 2021

I have know Dr Jalilie my entire life - one of her first patients as she’s mentioned. Dr Jalilie was a different kind of breed. She was more than just a doctor, she was also a friend. Beautiful, happy and full of life is how you’ll always be remembered. We are praying for you and your family during this difficult time to find peace and comfort. Love you forever

Candle lit  by Deb Conway on July 8th, 2021

I can't make it real. Over 2 decades of friendship and extraordinary medical care.. Never had a doctor I could say ANYTHING to except Sophia... likely never will again.
What is the message? What would she want us to learn from this. The teacher she was would have had a lesson in it all.. I just don't understand why the good ones are taken away too early. Miss you girl.

Candle lit  by Marjorie Clark on July 8th, 2021

My heart was in shock when I heard the news of Dr.Jalilie’s passing. She was my doctor for over 20 Years. Wonderful and loving care she gave to me and all her patients as well as family & friends. I had a virtual appt. with her on June 4th and was looking forward to a follow up in person. She is with the Angels now.  Her smile will be forever missed.

Candle lit  by cecilia Ramos on July 9th, 2021

Dr J you will be missed .??I'm forever  grateful to you for the care you gave my son . you were away on vacation . He had strep throat and . I took him in to emergency  2 times after one of your colleagues saw him. They just prescribed him with more antibiotics. Because of your amazing expertise. You diagnosed him with menagitis ,Had me rush him to emergency .You're one in a million.Luv U

Candle lit  by Lori Hopp Stafford on July 10th, 2021

What a tremendous loss to Dr. Jalilie's family, friends, patients and the community. She was a bright ray of sunshine, always open and caring to those around her. She will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace, Dr. Jalilie.

Candle lit  by E Garbe on July 11th, 2021

I am so sorry to learn of the news. Dr. Jalilie, we will miss your gorgeous smile and be grateful for your loving care of your patients. Rest in peace.

Candle lit  by Sue Johnson on July 11th, 2021

Very grateful to Dr. Jalilie for 28 years of care. She was always so kind and insightful. She will be missed. May her family be comforted by many good memories of her in the days ahead.

Candle lit  by John Caruso on July 12th, 2021

Dr.Jalilie family,
She was a light in this Dark World, she wore her heart on her sleeve her smile was genuine, her care for patients was real. I know it's hard to lose someone so young and full of life but rest assured that beautiful spirit is in the hands of our Lord lifting you with his grace and love. she will always live in your hearts forever;)

Candle lit  by Natalie Krumm on July 12th, 2021

I stumbled upon Dr. Jalilie's obituary in the paper yesterday and was just floored.  The last time I talked to her was on a Zoom appointment last year during the wildfires when I was experiencing an asthma attack - as always, she was super nice, easy to talk to, and helped me get what I needed.  My sincere condolences to her family, friends, coworkers and many, many patients.

Candle lit  by Carrie Holmberg on July 12th, 2021

Like so, so many others, Dr. Jalilie was my compassionate, expert doctor for over 20 years. She and the entire office took great care of me and my family all that time. We are deeply saddened by her loss. Our hearts go out to all her family, friends, and co-workers.

Candle lit  by Michelle Beers on July 13th, 2021

My dearest Dr Jalalie you were truly one of a kind. You have been my Dr and friend for over 20 years. I talked to you just says before your passing! It’s so unreal. You were so full of life. You gave 110% to everyone you touched! May god hold you in his arms! You were such a bright light in this world! You will be in my heart always. My deepest condolences to your family. God bless Dr J

Candle lit  by Behrouz Farsi on July 13th, 2021

We measure the darkness by the light. Thank you for being luminous, serving as a bridge and making your life legacy an offering of possibility to those you encountered.

We measure happiness, joy and gratitude by the pain, sadness, desolation, fear and challenge we experience. Thank you for being a consummate healthcare provider, compassionate colleague and kind, caring, inspirational human being.

Although your physical presence will be missed greatly, your character and the cherished memories created in your presence will be treasured always.

Dearest Bertha Sofia, may you and all of the forces that made you possible be blessed.

Candle lit  by Julia Cinnamon on July 13th, 2021

Your memory will be a blessing to us all. I am so sad to hear about your passing. You were the first MD that truly made me feel seen, heard, respected, and well cared for. Thank you for treating me with so much compassion and positivity. You truly were a light in the darkness. I am so very sorry and share my condolences to your family. Thank you for making the world a better place.

Candle lit  by Ilaria Chang on July 14th, 2021

I remember my first appointment with Dr. Jalilie, and immediately knew she was the primary care physician that I have been looking for. Her presence was caring, compassionate, and made you felt heard. She will be truly missed by so many and my thoughts are with all those she has touched and cared for. Thank you so much Dr. Jalilie and Rest well.

Candle lit  by Dagmara Ava on July 14th, 2021

What a shocking and tragic loss.  You were my physician for 21 years - always caring, kind and patient.  I was so delighted to have the zoom appointments, as I moved further away.  Called today to make an appointment, and that is how I found out.  You will be so missed - there is a huge void in my life now, and I don’t know how it will ever be filled… You will be in my heart always ??

Candle lit  by Patty Romero on July 14th, 2021

We are heartbroken by the loss of such a wonderful human being, always willing to help and so caring and loving.  I met Dr, Jalilie almost 30 years ago, she was my friend and then my doctor, and then she took really good care of my parents as their doctor.  We will miss you, we love you Dr. Sofia.
The Romero Family

Candle lit  by Chris Hutson on July 15th, 2021

As with so many, we were shocked and extremely saddened by the news of Dr. Jalilie's unexpected passing. She was more than our doctor for over two decades, she was a supremely capable, knowledgeable, trusted, caring friend. We will miss her energy, compassion, and humor. One of a kind. Our deepest sympathies for you, her family. She will be long and fondly remembered.

Candle lit  by Pam/Bob Dunnett on July 15th, 2021

The World has lost a truly remarkable person.  As our physician (and more importantly as our FRIEND), she provided the most competent professional guidance for our Family as well as a compassionate and caring concern for all that mattered to us.  Her loss is something that continues to consume us on a daily basis - quite simply, she was the BEST!

Candle lit  by BETSY SHAFER on July 15th, 2021

Gone much too soon . . . . will be greatly missed . . .  not just a good doctor . . . a good person  . . .  a light in the world . . . .condolences to her family . . .

Candle lit  by ? ? on July 16th, 2021

We are shocked and heartbroken by the news of Dr. Jalilie's passing away.  She has been taking care of our family for over 10 years.  My wife, my daughter and I all loved her and we simply cannot believe her leaving us at this age.  She was so lively, humorous and caring as a friend as well as a doctor with expertise. RIP, Dr. we will keep you in our prayers!

Candle lit  by Estella Johnson on July 16th, 2021

I would like to offer my sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the family of Dr. Bertha Sofia Jalilie.

Candle lit  by Tiffany Havens on July 17th, 2021

I don’t even have words for how crushed I am by your passing. You were my first and only dr. You held me as a baby, so many of my first memories are of sitting in your office and getting candy and stickers & you and my mom chatting after our appointments. You helped me with my mental health which is so hard to come by in a family physician. I’ll miss you forever.

Candle lit  by Andrea Starr on July 17th, 2021

I am heartbroken to hear of Dr. Jalilies passing. I can honestly say she was the most caring and compassionate doctor I have ever encountered. My heartfelt condolences to her husband, family, friends, colleagues and patients.
She will be missed by many.

Candle lit  by Sowmya Raman on July 19th, 2021

Dr J, I still cannot believe that I will never see your smiling face again. You were more than a doctor to me for over 20 years. I feel so lucky to have known you. Your absence leaves a hole in my heart. My deepest sympathies to your family who must miss you tremendously. I will always remember your kindness and your genuine beauty both inside and outside.

Candle lit  by Lela Managadze on July 20th, 2021

I have no words to express how saddened I were (and still am!) by learning about Sofia's passing. She was a wonderful doctor to me and my hubby, always smiling, attentively listening, encouraging. She was the reason I drove from far to her practice in Cupertino and I was planning to keep her while traveling abroad but learned this devastating news... Rest in peace, my dear Dr. Jalilie!

Candle lit  by Barbara Meece on July 20th, 2021

I am in shock.  I spoke to Dr. Jalilie shortly before this happened.  I shall miss her kind heart and giving sole.  She was the one person I could be completely honest and never have judgement.  She celebrated the joys in my life and held me in the bad times.  I am sure her family is devastated but know what a joy she was to so many.  Her life had so much meaning and impact.

Candle lit  by Julie Bauer on July 20th, 2021

Someone so special can never be forgotten. I was both privledged and forturnate to have had Sophia Jalilie as my doctor for over 15 years.  I will always remember her warm smile & calm, caring, gentle manner.  She listened better than any friend.  Words cannot heal the pain of losing someone so extraordinary.  May she rest in peace with God and forever be our Angel.  

Candle lit  by suman brar on July 20th, 2021

So saddened to hear this, still so hard to comprehend. She was an outstanding doctor, I always use to tell her "Dr Jalilie, you are in the right profession for you!" Someone who truly was gifted with the skills to be an amazing doctor. Deepest sympathies to the family and may they be comforted to know how much she touched the world. We were fortunate to have her as our doctor. "God bless".

Candle lit  by Gloria Carruthers on July 21st, 2021

Dr Jalilie, my heart aches that you have been taken from us. You were one of my first doctors when I arrived in the US in 1995. Your grace, your compassion,and your smile were only some of the qualities that made you a wonderful doctor. I can’t believe I will not see your beautiful face again.  The angels gave you your wings too early but Rest In Peace and keep watching the clouds.

Candle lit  by Aruna Natraj on July 21st, 2021

Dear Dr Jalilie, you were my doctor for over 20 years and I will miss you dearly.  At every visit  I felt like I was visiting my sister and not at a doctor appointment.  It is evident that all your patients felt the same way about you. Your humility, compassion and beautiful smile will always be remembered. RIP

Candle lit  by Cheng Wu on August 7th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie, we learned about the impossible news while in vacation. The thought that we now live without your counsel and care is hard to reconcile even today. We did not just lose a family doctor; we lost a lifelong friend who has made all the differences in this world. It is your touching that is most moving; for that we are forever grateful to have known you.

Candle lit  by Adriana Alcazar on August 9th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie (Sofia), I've been in shock since learning the sad news.  I had been trying to make an in-person appt, since we've been seeing each other through video this past 1.5 yrs.  I'm saddened I won't hear your conforting voice, sound advice, and see your beautiful smile.  My medical health was in such good hands.  I'm forever grateful to have met you and will miss you so. You're definitely an angel. RIP and my condolences to your family & friends.  

Candle lit  by Linda White on August 9th, 2021

I am enormously grateful to have had Dr. Jalilie as my doctor for nearly 4 years. She was the best doctor I have ever had, a great diagnostician, an excellent listener and perhaps best of all, she was empathic. She had a deep knowledge of medicine and an open mind to new ideas. She was also a beautiful soul, an angel on earth. I miss her. My heartfelt sympathy to all who loved her.

Candle lit  by Jasmine Timmons on August 15th, 2021

Dr. Jalilie was always someone I trusted and felt extremely comfortable with. She has been my doctor since I was a little girl and was truly a special person. Kind, warm, and compassionate. She made going to the doctor's office feel like I was visiting a family member or a friend. Genuinely cared for my well-being and had my best interest at heart. My family will miss her as well.

Candle lit  by Karen and Michael de la Cuesta on August 23rd, 2021

Always warm, always genuine, always had your best interest at heart.  Dr. Jalilie had that really cool way of making you feel so comfortable and you knew everything's gonna be all right. She was our friend that we hadn't seen in awhile, but when we did catch up it was if we never stopped talking. Her smile was infectious and she was a true one of a kind, forever in our hearts.

Candle lit  by judy Coulter on November 2nd, 2022

Still so unbelievable and sad.

Candle lit  by Samira Nijmeh on December 3rd, 2023

I can't believe it's over 2 years since we've seen your beautiful face. We all know who did it. Justice for Sophia. He took an amazing woman off this Earth . The most loving and affectionate doctor you will ever have. May he rot in hell! Justice for Sophia.

Candle lit  by Patricia Bolster on May 21st, 2024

My beautiful friend and doctor: I will miss you forever.   I moved away from the Bay Are in 2020, and was looking for you to get my daughters' records, and saw that you are tragically gone from this earth way too soon.  My heart is broken.  I cannot believe it!!! My soul mourns and grieves for you.  You took care of me and my children with love and devotion for 30 years.  I cannot believe that you are gone: such a sweet beautiful spirit, filled with light and love.  You were always so kind and loving with us.  You lit up whatever room you walked into.  Wherever you are now, I know that you are dancing in the light.  My love is with you always, my beautiful friend and physician: until we meet again: Shalom.

Leave a Tribute
Invite Family and Friends
Information and Settings
Administered by David Trumper
This memorial has been viewed 13515 times.
Created in partnership with

San Jose Mercury News

408-920-5276